Participation in outdoor recreation enhances well-being. Outdoor recreation is also associated with improvements in the physical, mental, and emotional health of a person. However, it can be challenging for people with mobility disabilities, particularly wheelchair users, to participate in outdoor recreation. They have to consider a lot of factors.
One barrier is the cost of specialised outdoor recreation equipment as it requires different equipment for every activity. Lack of funds can also limit engagements in outdoor recreation. There are also transportation issues because it will need assistance from several people. However, that is not the only problem. Some establishments have no accessible facilities at all, leaving people with disabilities from experiencing and enjoying outdoor activities. The amount of time in carefully planning different recreation activities take away the spontaneity of the experience. Health-related concerns such as injuries or aging can also restrict outdoor recreation experience. Some people with mobility issues deliberately avoid activities because they get frustrated with people who congratulate them for participating in outdoor recreation when they are simply continuing their lives.
Nonetheless, participating in outdoor fun has been linked to various psychosocial benefits, including increased social skills and self-confidence, enhanced self-concept, and an increased sense of well-being. It allowed individuals with disabilities to view themselves beyond their ability. Moreover, they can reconnect with their family and build relationships with others. Aside from personal motivation, encouragement from family and friends to explore new activities or return to previous activities is the primary facilitator of participation in outdoor activities among individuals with disabilities. Support from their family and friends increases their interest in resuming their lives; thereby, enhancing their well-being and quality of life.
Increased involvement in family recreation activities strengthens communication, family life satisfaction, and family functioning. As families engage in recreation activities, they are able to establish a sense of normalcy. However, cooperation among people with disabilities, the government, and other organisations or establishments is also significant in addressing recreation issues and providing outdoor experiences for people with mobility disabilities. Inputs of people with disabilities are highly relevant in developing programs or services that cater to their needs. Having universal access to equipment such as the availability of adapted equipment at different facilities can be helpful because it reduces the burden on wheelchair users. It also helps decrease cost, eliminates the need to transport equipment, and allows more spontaneous activity. It is challenging to make this initiative financially sustainable, but it would be great to have access to various outdoor recreation so everyone can enjoy different life experiences.
If you’d like one on one mental wellness support, please reach out and we can put you in touch with the right people.
Content provided by our partners in mental wellness:
Comments are closed.